Police warn of 'suspicious' man in Captain Cook Park

Vancouver Police are investigating an incident involving a man who allegedly approached two girls in Captain Cook Park near Doman Street and East 54th Avenue.

Shortly before 9 a.m. on Wednesday, the nine-year-old girls were walking through the park to James Cook Elementary School when the man allegedly approached them. The girls were frightened and ran away.

The man is described as white, 40 to 45 years old, 6 feet tall, with a medium build and a full beard.

Police say the exact intentions of this man are not known and no arrests have been made.

Investigators will be looking into any other similar reported incidents in an attempt to identify this person.

Police are reminding people to call 911 immediately to report anyone suspicious. They are also asking parents to remind their children about what to do if approached by someone they do not know.

Safety tips

Teach your children that a stranger is anyone they don't know. Friendly strangers are still strangers..

If a stranger or anyone they know touches them or tries to take them somewhere against their will, they should scream, kick, yell and run away.

Do not write your child's name on clothing or bags; this would allow a stranger to know your child's name.

Teach your child how to dial 911; your child should also know his or her home address and important phone numbers.

For teens, use a buddy system. Never walk or bike alone, day or night.

Teach your child and teen to be aware of their surroundings, if they notice someone following them, they should cross the street and head for a crowded area or to a house they know is safe.